While beauty is a significant part of art, it will never overcome substance. Unfortunately that is what we learn with Jan Kounen's Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky, a biopic film chronicling the relationship of our two lead protagonist.
Starring Anna Mauglalis and Mads Mikkelsen, the film is quite possibly the most visually stunning work of art I have seen all year. Using no special effects or CGI, the picture quality is near perfect as you feast your eyes on the highly concentrated scenery. The costumes are nearly impeccable, the featured home a dream mansion for one and all; yet, somewhere down the line, the film runs flat.
I have never done research on the life of either Chanel or Stravinsky, so I am not entirely certain of its historical accuracy; however, it is a moot point. The film is boring. Lacking any real emotion or central conflict, we watch as our two lovers embark on an untraditional love affair. While I half expected there to be a feud between Chanel and Stravinsky's current wife who lay sick in a room upstairs, it never materialized. Both women sought the best for their man, and therefore neither put up much of a fight.
I will say that in addition to the visuals, the film did open on a high note. Featuring a stage production, we are introduced to the 'controversial' music and dance styles of Stravinsky. We fast-forward three years to see that he has made it big, therefore coming to the conclusion that he was just ahead of his time. But even to that I am not fully certain.
For an hour and a half film, Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky felt much longer. The budding relationship was slow going, and it really amounted to little in terms of the film's intended climax. The perfume side story for Coco was short lived as well; though I ultimately appreciated that creative decision. There was little involvement with the children of the film, and I felt that there could have been a side story or two there; not to mention the million other possibilities that showed themselves.
Ultimately this film proves to be one for the eyes, not the ears. I would recommend it for the visuals, but for those looking for a dramatic love triangle plotline, you would be better suited elsewhere.
